Monthly Archives: April 2016

AuntieOboshie hosted an installation exhibition with Ghana’s leading fashion brands on the 24th of April 2016 at the Accra International Conference Centre. The exhibition took guests on a journey through time by showcasing the story of Ghanaian fashion from the 60s till now.The exhibition, a celebration of Ghanaian fashion through the years, featured 59 installations that showcased different eras in Ghanaian Fashion. Brands presented various clothing that showcased Ghanaian Fashion style as it was in the Past (60s through to the 90s) and then Ghanaian Fashion as it is now.

I love how the people took the theme seriously and showed up looking their best. The creativity put into it is amazing.

With over 300 entries showcasing the latest trends in the world of fashion, the search for the next ELLE Style Reporter by ELLE in association with Orms & Canon, began. Through blog posts and storyboards, the stiff competition made the judges’ deliberation all the more difficult. Now, narrowed down to eight finalists, the best behind the lens will be awarded with the incredible opportunity to be the next ELLE Style Reporter.

The ELLE Style Reporter property was created just three years ago, crowning two successful winners, Trevor Stuurman and Niquita Bento; the announcement of the third winner is now just around the corner! With an ever-growing interest for local fashion in South Africa, the idea of the property was to find someone who’s perfectly attuned to what’s new on the streets and the catwalk. The winner should have an eye for fashion, be social media savvy and have the ability to narrate what’s on the ground through their lens. ELLE’s publisher Gisele Wertheim-Aymes says, ‘With the growth in social media, this really serves as an example that anything is possible and ELLE wanted to be the catalyst!’

The first winner Trevor Stuurman successfully created a niche in the industry by developing his own distinct trademark, and the second winner Niquita Bento, balances playful fashion quirks with interesting architecture through her lens as ELLE’s creative assistant. Together they prove that the ELLE Style Reporter is a sought after platform for emerging talent.This year again, the competition is powerful: ELLE Editor, Emilie Gambade says, ‘The eight finalists have really brought a unique point of view. A fresh look at ‘home-grown fashion & style’, away from the usual street style images we often see. Each of them brought something different and allowed for their own emotions, their personality to softly tint their work and imprint their images.’

“I’m really excited, as I feel that I’ve stepped into a different paradigm because I was a previous entrant in 2013 – managing only to get into the Top 20. Being part of the Top 8 now is a sign of growth for me and I’m ready to move forward! I feel that I have now focused on storytelling during my photography journey because I am a blogger who fell in love with photojournalism, fashion and writing at the same time a few years ago, and I think these things are elements in my work and helped with my selection for the Top 8.

“Being a Style Reporter sounds like a cool thing to do actually. I feel cool!

This is something I’ve been doing for years, and I think I’ve been selected because there is someone out there who believes in my work and me as a creative person. I love what I do and I believe that it shows on my work!”

“A street style photographer for an inspiring fashion publication such as Elle would be a dream come true, combining my two studied interests: fashion and photography perfectly!

I think that I have been selected as a finalist because the role of street style reporter is uniquely suited to my educational background, putting my knowledge and skills in fashion and visual communication to good use.”

“I am thrilled to be one of the finalists, because this competition is a great platform to promote aspirating photographers like myself. I am looking forward to sharing my ideas on youth culture in my society.I think I have been selected because my photography explores a “home-grown” style characterized by fashion forward individuals.”

“I am actually stocked, because it feels like I am in arms reach to achieving one of my biggest goals in life, which is shooting an Editorial for Elle Magazine!“I am doing the “money dance”!(Kevin Harts Dance) I think to be honest what Elle is looking for this year; best describes what I do on a daily basis, especially in terms of candid street style photography. Passion is another thing they looking for which I think they can see through my work.”

THE WINNER WILL RECEIVE: Announced on the 5th Of May in Newtown Johannesburg

On the 28th of April, the finalists will be treated to a technical workshop, under the leadership of sponsors Orms & Canon. There, they will also have one-on-one time with the judges before the final deliberation is made. The journey will culminate on the 5th of May at the Workshop in Newtown, Johannesburg.

Zambian designer Chiza Ngulube showcased his latest collection at South African Fashion Week. His brand Esnoko prides itself in creating unique garments and accessories using African print. This year was Esnoko’s second appearance at SA Fashion Week and I must say that I personally loved the collection and the collaboration with Palladium Boots was a great one even though some people would have preferred more formal shoes. I appreciated the unpredictability of the entire collection. Esnoko is for the sophisticated man who loves to stand out and was inspired by culture and music. And yes an Esnoko man also does not mind carrying a bag. The bag range is really trendy and can be paired with any outfit even for us ladies.

It has been a great pleasure watching Zamaswazi growing his brand. The amount of growth that has impacted his brand was evident at last weekend at South African Fashion Week for the GQ Scouting Menswear Competition. Although he did not win the competition, I know for a fact that he impressed a lot of people with his attention to detail and his unique suits. The detailing of the print and the pleats as well as some strings(if I may call it that) made the collection very interesting to me. Truth be told; I definitely would not mind wearing a Zamaswazi suit. It warms my heart when I see young Africans succeeding and being a step closer to realizing their dreams. Most important I am happy to see that Zamaswazi has really grown, our conversations about his brand have really changed since he first began. I have high hope for this young man and I cannot wait to see what milestone he climbs next.

South African Fashion Week kicked off last night at Hyde Park Corner in Johannesburg with the renowned fashion designer Gert-Johan Coetzee opening the fashion week. My favourite collection was The Geisha Wars by Clive Rundle. Judging by the title of the collection you can already tell that it is Asian Inspired. I thoroughly loved the layering and the choice of fabric as well as the pairing of the garments with Doc Martens. The garments are obviously for ladies who love being comfortable and free in their clothes as well as edgy women who love to stand out